Philliols Coppice

Wood, Forest in Dorset

England

Philliols Coppice

Birch trees beside Puddletown Road Credit: JThomas

Philliols Coppice is a captivating woodland located in the county of Dorset, England. Spread across an area of approximately 20 acres, this enchanting forest is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility amidst the beauty of the natural world.

Situated near the village of Cerne Abbas, Philliols Coppice boasts a diverse range of tree species, including oak, beech, and ash, which create a stunning canopy of greenery. The forest floor is adorned with a rich carpet of vibrant wildflowers, adding to the picturesque charm of the woodland.

The copse is intersected by a network of well-maintained footpaths, allowing visitors to explore its hidden treasures. As they wander through the ancient trees, visitors are likely to encounter an array of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. The woodland is especially renowned for its resident population of red squirrels, which can be spotted darting through the branches.

Philliols Coppice is not only a place of natural beauty but also holds historical significance. It is believed that the forest has been in existence for hundreds of years and was once used as a hunting ground by the local nobility. Today, it stands as a protected site, attracting visitors who appreciate its ecological importance and historical value.

Whether it's a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or birdwatching, Philliols Coppice offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its serenity, combined with its breathtaking scenery, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking solace in the heart of Dorset's countryside.

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Philliols Coppice Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.718641/-2.1909099 or Grid Reference SY8691. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Birch trees beside Puddletown Road

JThomas

Puddletown Road

JThomas

Old Boundary Marker on Lower Hyde Heath

Boundary Marker on Lower Hyde Heath, southwest of Stroud Bridge. On the boundary of Bere Regis and Wareham St Martin parishes. Milestone Society National ID: DO_BERWSM01bm

W Halliday

Nightjar eggs, Philliols Heath

Whilst trying to get a better vantage point to photograph a buzzard, I was surprised by a nightjar erupting from the heather just in front of me. To my astonishment, there in the place where the bird had been, were two very well camouflaged eggs. I didn't want to disturb the bird any more than I had already done so but I just had to get a shot of the bird itself...

Ian Andrews

Nightjar, Philliols Heath

Having disturbed the bird on its eggs the previous day I returned the following day to try to get a pic of the bird itself. This time I stayed about 10 feet away. The bird was virtually invisible due to its camouflaged plumage; although it appears to be dozing with just a tiny slit of eye visible, this is simply a further attempt by the bird to become invisible; it is actually wide awake but hiding its very dark and very visible eyes.

Ian Andrews

Pitcher plants, Philliols Heath

My understanding is that these plants are sarracenia purpurea, the purple pitcher plant, an insectivorous plant native of North America. This pic shows three large groups but a wider angle would reveal closer to 50 of them. I know that many believe that as an alien species they should be removed and destroyed but whatever your belief, you can't deny their beauty and the fact that they're fascinating.

Ian Andrews

Lower Hyde Heath, plantation

On access land, on the Trigon Estate.

Mike Faherty

Lower Hyde Common, bird feeder

At the boundary of heathland and coarse grazing, on the Trigon Estate.

Mike Faherty

Cattle, Bere Heath

A field sloping gently down to the Bere Stream.

Robin Webster

Barn, Philliols Farm

Not nationally listed, but the barn just showing behind it is grade II.

Robin Webster

Woodland, River Piddle valley

Looking across one of the strands of the Piddle, hidden by lush vegetation, but marked by the line of a white umbellifer.

Robin Webster

Puddletown Road

Higher Hyde Heath nature reserve is to the right.

Robin Webster

Bare silver birches by Puddletown Road

On the edge of Higher Hyde Heath nature reserve

David Smith

Old Boundary Marker on Bloxworth Heath, Bloxworth parish

Parish Boundary Marker in parish of Bloxworth (Purbeck District), Bloxworth Heath, 30m Southwest of forestry road overlooking wet grassland, on patch of dry heathland. Surveyed Milestone Society National ID: DO_BLXEST01pb

Milestone Society